Thomas Tuchel reportedly turned down approaches from Manchester United and Barcelona last season in order to stay loyal to Chelsea.
The 49-year-old was relieved of his managerial duties at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday, but it is believed that a decision had been made before Tuesday's 1-0 loss to Dinamo Zagreb in the Champions League.
Graham Potter is now thought to be on the verge of being appointed Chelsea's new manager, with the Brighton & Hove Albion boss travelling to London on Wednesday afternoon for talks.
Tuchel won the Champions League, UEFA Super Cup and Club World Cup during his time with the Blues, in addition to reaching two FA Cup finals and one EFL Cup final.
The German won 60 of his 100 matches in charge of the club, drawing 24 and losing just 16, but the club have decided to move in a different direction.
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According to The Telegraph, both Man United and Barcelona were keen to speak to Tuchel last season about their managerial positions, but the head coach stayed loyal to his now former club.
The report claims that Barcelona wanted Tuchel in the aftermath of Ronald Koeman's sacking last October, but Xavi was ultimately handed the role at Camp Nou.
Man United, meanwhile, are said to have been keen on the German towards the end of last season amid the uncertainty surrounding the ownership situation at Stamford Bridge.
The Red Devils are believed to have explored appointing Tuchel as a replacement for interim head coach Ralf Rangnick, but Erik ten Hag was eventually named the team's new manager.
Tuchel has also previously been in charge of Mainz 05, Borussia Dortmund and Paris Saint-Germain, while he started his coaching career at Augsburg II in 2007.
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"Chelsea Football Club has today parted company with Head Coach Thomas Tuchel," read Chelsea's statement, as the club confirmed his removal on Wednesday morning.
"On behalf of everyone at Chelsea FC, the Club would like to place on record its gratitude to Thomas and his staff for all their efforts during their time with the Club. Thomas will rightly have a place in Chelsea's history after winning the Champions League, the Super Cup and Club World Cup in his time here.
"As the new ownership group reaches 100 days since taking over the Club, and as it continues its hard work to take the club forward, the new owners believe it is the right time to make this transition.
"Chelsea's coaching staff will take charge of the team for training and the preparation of our upcoming matches as the Club moves swiftly to appoint a new head coach."
Chelsea are currently preparing for Saturday's Premier League clash with rivals Fulham, which comes ahead of a home Champions League fixture with Red Bull Salzburg.
Matt Law
